Cuba

Cuba is the largest Caribbean island, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. It lies 145 kilometers (90 miles) south of Key West, Florida, between the Cayman Islands and the Bahamas, to the West of Haiti, and northwest of Jamaica.

An Introduction to the Region of Cuba

Western Cuba ( Pinar del Rio, Havana, Matanzas, Isla de la Juventud) The capital and the rolling hills of Pinar del Rio and an off-the-beaten-path island with good scuba diving add up to an exciting region.

Central Cuba (Camagüey (province), Villa Clara, Cienfuegos, Sancti Spíritus, Ciego de Ávila)

Eastern Cuba (Las Tunas, Holguin, [[Santiago de Cuba (province) | Santiago de Cuba]], Granma, Guantánamo)

Other Muslim friendly Cities in Cuba

• Havana – cosmopolitan capital with a swinging nightlife
• Baracoa – a quaint beach-side town, and Cuba's first capital
• Camagüey – Cuba's third-largest city is a maze of narrow alleyways, Catholic churches, and jars known as tinajones
• Cienfuegos – a French-founded city that rivaled (and eventually overtook) Trinidad as Cuba's main southern Port
• Matanzas – with a name that translates to "massacres," this industrial port city at the end of the Hershey railway is a hidden gem of Afro-Cuban culture and history
• Pinar del Rio – center of the cigar industry
• Santa Clara – site of the battle that won the Revolution and now home of the mausoleum to Ernesto "Che" Guevara
• Santiago de Cuba – coastal city rich in Caribbean influence and steeped in revolutionary history
• Trinidad – World Heritage Site with charming, colonial-era buildings

Other Muslim Friendly Destinations in Cuba

• Cayo Largo – a small island with nudist facilities
• Gran Parque Natural Topes de Collantes – a national park in the Sierra del Emcambray mountains, straddling Cienfuegos, Villa Clara, and Sancti Spiritus provinces
• Isla de la Juventud – a large island south of Havana
• Jardines del Rey – an island chain of beach resorts including Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo
• Maria la Gorda – a tiny village with some snorkeling and diving options
• Parque Nacional Ciénaga de Zapata – similar to Florida's Everglades National Park, with vast swamps and world-famous birdwatching, scuba diving, and beaches; and the site of the 1961 American Bay of Pigs invasion
• Parque Nacional La Güira – Another national park in Pinar del Rio province, with mountains and caves, but without many tourist facilities
• Reserva de la Biosfera Sierra del Rosario – a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Sierra del Rosario mountains of Pinar del Rio province; the principal sites are Soroa and Las Terrazas
• Varadero Beach – 20-kilometer-long beach of fine white sand and waters
• Viñales – a national park in Pinar del Rio province, with mountains and caves; it has the best-developed tourist facilities of Cuba's national parks

Cuba Halal Explorer

History of Cuba

Before Columbus landed on Cuba in 1492 and the Taíno people had been living there for eons. In 1511 and the first Spanish settlement was founded by Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar at Baracoa, and other towns soon followed including the future capital San Cristobal de Habana (Havana) which was founded in 1515.

Cuba remained a Spanish colony from 1511 to 1898 with an economy based on plantations, agriculture, mining and exports of sugar, coffee and tobacco to North America and Europe. The work was done primarily by African slaves brought to the island, until they were liberated in the late 19th century.

Cuban victims of Spanish reconcentration policies

In 1898, Cuba was wrested from Spain by the United States in the Spanish–American War. The U.S. subsequently kept Cuba under military occupation as a protectorate for a few decades and then controlled it through a series of corrupt military dictators who were also friendly with the Mafia.

In the late 1950s, Fidel Castro led a guerilla army to victory over the regime of Fulgencio Batista. Following his victory, Cuba aligned with the Soviet Union, and in a state of confrontation with the United States, which attempted to overthrow the Cuban government by proxy invasion, blockade, embargo, and several assassination attempts on Castro's life by the Central Intelligence Agency. The only thing all these hostile actions succeeded in doing was helping to cripple Cuba's economy. Nevertheless, literacy and health care improved greatly under Fidel's rule. In more recent years, Venezuela under the rule of Hugo Chávez provided free oil to Cuba in exchange for Cuban doctors and nurses.

Islam in Cuba

Islam in Cuba presents a unique case in the history of religions in the Caribbean nation. With its roots tracing back to enslaved African Muslims during the colonial era, Islam has had a sporadic and limited presence on the island. However, in the past few decades, there has been a resurgence and re-organization of the faith, driven primarily by converts and foreign students.

Historical Background: The first encounter of Islam with Cuba was through enslaved Africans who were brought to work on sugar plantations. These early Muslims left an indelible mark on Cuban history and culture, albeit one that was largely unrecorded and underrepresented in the mainstream narrative.

Revival of Islam in Modern Cuba: While the number of Muslims in Cuba decreased significantly post-revolution, the 1970s and 1980s saw a fresh interest in the faith. This resurgence was driven in part by foreign students, especially from Pakistan, who came to study in Cuba. They played a significant role in reviving Islamic practices among the locals.

Challenges: Cuban Muslims have had to grapple with several challenges, including a lack of religious resources in (Spanish), absence of formal religious education, and initially, a government hesitant to recognize Islam as an official religion. Converts also grapple with reconciling their Cuban identity, traditions, and practices with their newfound faith. Pork and alcohol, staples of Cuban culture, present challenges for new Muslim converts.

Acceptance and Growth: With the opening of the Abdallah Mosque in Old Havana, Islam has gained a formal place in Cuban society. The mosque, built with Turkish funding, symbolizes the increasing acceptance of Islam in Cuba. The government's shift from a stance of hesitation to one of acceptance showcases the changing dynamics and the growing influence of the global Muslim community.

Integration of Cultures: Cuban Islam is unique. It melds the island’s rich traditions with Islamic principles, giving rise to a distinctive blend of practices and beliefs. As with many new religious movements in culturally diverse societies, the integration of traditional customs with religious tenets is both a challenge and an opportunity.

The Future: With the establishment of a formal place of worship and the increasing availability of Islamic education, the future for Islam in Cuba looks promising. As more Cubans get exposed to the faith and its teachings, the community is poised for growth.

Local Language in Cuba

Culture & Tradition of Cuba

Music

Cuban music is influenced by the melding of African and Cuban cultures that is also expressed in the traditional belief in Santería and the local name for Yoruba religion and trainings that originate from Nigeria. Cuban music spread to the United States in the mid-1900s, including its rich mixture of rhythms, and helped create "Latin jazz".

The People of Cuba

Although average income is only US$ 50, Cubans are not poor as their basic needs are covered by the government. They pay their monthly bills of subsidized electricity and water with around US$5, receive free education from elementary school to university, can see doctors for free and receive medicine for free. The social system cares for people out of job and provides them with a home and money for food. Life is not easy but everyone can survive. Keep this in mind when it comes to tipping or people begging in the streets (rare).

When to go

The best times to go are between December and April, to avoid the storms and hurricanes before December and the sticky heat of the Cuban summer which can be unbearable for some. Thit is also the high season so expect a price increase during this period.

Public Holidays in Cuba

• January 1 - Triumph of the Revolution
• January 2 - Victory of the Armed Forces Day
• Good Friday (variable)
• May 1 - Labour Day
• July 25 - Commemoration of the Assault of the Moncada Garrison
• July 26 - Day of the National Rebellion
• October 10 - Independence Day
• December 25 - Christmas

Local Language in Cuba

The official language of Cuba is (Spanish), quite similar to the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rican (Spanish), although the version here is quite different from that spoken in Spain (although quite similar to the one in Canary Islands because many Cubans are descendants of Canarians), Mexico and South America. Cubans tend to swallow the last syllable in a word and generally swallow the 's' sound.

Basic to fair English is spoken in some tourist locations and language should not be a deterrent to visiting the nation for non-Spanish speaking tourists capable of speaking English, though basic Spanish would prove useful, especially in more informal settings. Cubans enjoy talking to tourists, especially if you are staying with them in the "Casas particulares" and some knowledge of Spanish will help you understand regular Cubans' experiences.

Instead of the Spanish "Que tal?" for "How are you?", Cubans will say "Que vola?" (similar to "What's up?", generally quite informal) or "Como andas?" (literally means, "How are you walking?"). Young Cubans amongst themselves will use the word "asere" which means "buddy" but is generally used between men and is not recommended for use by women. Although, "asere" is not commonly used between people that do not know each other.

Since the primary school stage, scholars are instructed in basic English, although their English level varies from student to student, and between locations. In establishments located near the main tourism centres, workers often may establish medium to high level dialogues in English.

How to travel to Cuba

Regular tourists who renew their 30-day visa are eligible to depart the nation (to any destination) and return immediately enjoying a further 60 days (30 days plus a 30-day extension). You are only allowed two consecutive stays in this manner.

If you want to stay with friends or family in Cuba you have to go with your intended host within two days after arrival to a migration office and pay 40 CUC for a 30 days family visa.

Visitors of Antigua and Barbuda (28 days), Barbados (28 days), Benin, Bosnia and Herzegovina, CIS (except Ukraine and Uzbekistan), Dominica, Grenada (60 days), Liechtenstein (90 days), Malaysia (90 days), Mongolia, Montenegro (90 days), Namibia, North Macedonia, Singapore, Slovakia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Serbia (90 days), Turkmenistan who can stay 30 days without visa.

The departure tax is included in the airplane ticket and does not have to be paid separately. No departure tax is required for boat departures.

Cuban-born

To enter Cuba, Cuban citizens residing permanently in another country require a current Cuban passport with the appropriate authorisation. This authorisation has been known as habilitación of the passport. To obtain this authorisation the Cuban citizen must be recognised a migrant by the Cuban government.

Most Cuban-born people who are citizens of other countries still need a current authorised Cuban passport to enter Cuba. The Cuban government does not recognise the citizenships that might have been acquired by anyone born in Cuba. This means that all Cuban-born individuals are considered to be Cuban citizens even if they have a different citizenship.

An exception to this rule are Cubans who emigrated from Cuba before 1 January 1971. In this case they can enter Cuba with a non-Cuban passport and the appropriate visa. However, some consulates are known to disregard this exception, with the result that travellers must acquire a Cuban passport at a significant cost. The Cuban consulate in Sydney, Australia is one that have been reported to be doing this.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Cuba

Havana

José Martí International Airport outside Havana is the main gateway and is served by major airlines from points in Canada, Mexico, and Europe. There is direct service from Beijing. There are also regional Flights from other Caribbean islands. Cuba's national carrier is Cubana de Aviación, connecting the island to a handful of destinations in Mexico, South and Central America, Canada and Europe. With the easing of sanctions against Cuba, direct connecting flights are available from a number of U.S. cities, including Charlotte, Newark, and Miami despite the imposition of new limits on independent travel from the US.

Flights from Miami to Cuba are offered to authorized American passengers. Try calling Cuba Travel Services (CTS Charters). They offer daily non-stop flights between Los Angeles and Miami to Cuba. There are also regular holiday charter Flights to resorts such as Varadero, and these can sometimes be less expensive than those going to Havana.

The airports are all fully air-conditioned and quite modern compared to other destinations in the Caribbean, offer good medical care in case of problems, and are relatively hassle free. Your checked luggage, though, is at great risk. It is increasingly common for your luggage to be opened and anything of value removed. This used to be a problem at José Martí International (Havana) only; now it seems to have spread to all airports. Packing valuables in checked luggage is extremely risky, if not foolish.

If you have purchased a Oneworld ticket then further flights into America within that year will be disallowed through American Airlines.

Others

While Havana is by far the most popular port of entry and there are also flights available to Santiago de Cuba from some of Cuba's nearest Caribbean neighbours, Jamaica and Haiti. There are also Flights from more distant locations, such as Miami, Toronto, Madrid, Paris, Milan and Rome. Santiago de Cuba is connected with the rest of Cuba by road and rail connections.

There are also regular holiday charter Flights to resorts such as Varadero, and these can sometimes be less expensive than those going to Havana.

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Cuba

There are no ferry services from Cancún to Cuba as the sole operator of this line, Aqua Cruises, no longer sails this route. There are also no ferry services from Florida to Cuba, however several cruise companies have announced they intend to sail this route when the travel embargo is lifted.

Yachters are expected to anchor at the public marinas. Most ports are closed and Muslims are not permitted to walk around them. Private vessels may enter at Marina Hemingway in Havana or Marina Acua in Varadero. There are no visa requirements. Expect to hand out several US$10 bills to facilitate your entry.

Travel by train to Cuba

The main train line in the nation runs between Havana and Santiago de Cuba, with major stops at Santa Clara (Cuba) | Santa Clara and Camagüey. Trains also run to other cities such as Cienfuegos, Manzanillo, Morón, Sancti Spiritus, and Pinar del Rio.

There is one reliable train in Cuba: the overnight Tren Francés between Havana and Santiago de Cuba, which runs on alternate days. It uses equipment that used to be operated on the Trans-Europe Express, and donated to Cuba by France a few years ago (hence the name). There are first class and special first class seats on this train (the special seats are better and more expensive), but no sleepers. If only one train in Cuba is running, this will be it.

All other trains in Cuba are unreliable. The equipment is often in poor condition, breakdowns are common, and when they occur, you can be stuck for the better part of the day (or night) waiting for a replacement engine. There are no services on the trains, so bring plenty of food and water with you. Trains are frequently cancelled. Some trains offer first class seats (don't expect too much); others have second class seats, which can be very uncomfortable. Schedules are at best optimistic and should always be checked in advance of travel. There are no sleepers on overnight routes.

If you are still thinking of taking a train, other than the Tren Francès, you should know that many Cubans prefer to hitchhike than take the train.

If you are still determined to take a train, approximate schedules are given under the different city descriptions. Foreigners must pay much higher rates (which is still very cheap) than the local residents. Tickets are roughly two-thirds what Viazul charges. Theft is a problem so watch your luggage!

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Cuba

The fastest and most comfortable way to cover larger distances is on either of the Cuban airlines, Cubana de Aviación or Aerogaviota. They operate on the following routes:

Cubana de Aviación

• Havana - Camaguey - Havana, Yakovlev Yak-42D
• Havana - Santiago - Havana, Yakovlev Yak-42D

Operated by Aero Caribbean

• Havana - Camaguey - Havana, ATR 42-300/320
• Havana - Guantanamo - Havana, ATR 42-300/320

Operated by Global Air (Mexico)

• Havana - Cayo Coco - Holguin - Havana, Boeing 737-200
• Havana - Holguin - Cayo Coco - Havana, Boeing 737-200
• Havana - Santiago - Havana, Boeing 737-200

Aerogaviota

• Havana - Kigston, Jamaica - Havana
• Havana - Cayo Las Brujas - Havana
• Playa Baracoa (Havana) - Baracoa - Playa Baracoa (Havana)
• Playa Baracoa (Havana) - Cayo Coco - Playa Baracoa (Havana)
• Playa Baracoa (Havana) - Cayo Largo del Sur - Playa Baracoa (Havana)
• Playa Baracoa (Havana) - Holguin - Playa Baracoa (Havana)
• Playa Baracoa (Havana) - Cayo Las Brujas - Playa Baracoa (Havana)
• Playa Baracoa (Havana) - Santiago de Cuba - Playa Baracoa (Havana)
• Holguin - Playa Baracoa (Havana) - Baracoa - Holguin - Playa Baracoa (Havana)
• Varadero - Cayo Largo del Sur - Varadero

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Cuba

[[File:López Serrano Building, El Vedado, Havana.jpg|1280px|López Serrano Building, El Vedado, Havana]]

There are two main island groups to explore along the southern shore of Cuba. Your sailing area from the two main bases, Cienfuegos or Trinidad incorporates the Canarreos Archipelago and the Juventud Islands or Jardines de la Reina Archipelago.

What to see in Cuba

There are historical sites to visit in Cuba including Cienfuegos, Trinidad (Cuba) and Camagüey.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Cuba

• Walk along Havana'sMalécon during the early evening and take in some of Havana's culture. Be cautious about prostitutes, as mentioned above; they are heavy in this area, especially in sections where rich white male Muslims are known to walk.
• If you have the money (usually about US$60 or the euro equivalent), go to the Tropicana, which is an ex-Mafia hangout owned and operated by the state. The Tropicana is located, as it has always been, deep within a strategically tree-heavy area with a narrow road within the city, back behind the trees, and since its admission price is far too expensive for any average Cuban to afford and the people who go there are almost all international tourists. The club still has old-style traditions such as table service, lavish costumes, dazzling lights, a coat check area, etc. Real (but quite small) cigars are also available and can be smoked inside the venue, including near the stage. The Tropicana is so well-kept that it is almost a time warp (with the exception of the modern stage-equipment and the lack of a dress code) and, so long as you can forgive yourself the fact that most Cubans cannot afford what you are doing, your night is sure to be extremely enjoyable.
• Go see a neighbourhood performance of Afro-Cuban dance, which exists in almost every neighbourhood.
• Go see local music, which exists in almost every neighbourhood.
• Go to the clubs, all of which heavily play things like Cuban reggae and Cuban rap, as well as more traditional-sounding Cuban music with modern lyrics.
• Go to the beaches — but be careful, as in Jamaica, of being solicited by prostitutes and con people, both male and female.
• Don't stay at a resort, unless you don't want to experience the local culture. You will probably be bored and things around you may feel fake, gaudy and overdone.
• Go out in the nationside and talk with farmers. Check out the area markets. There are two types of markets -- state-run markets, which give food very cheaply and for which Cubans keep ration Books (and that you probably can't shop at because you won't have a ration book of your own), and profit-oriented markets where farmers sell their produce directly, which of course, is quite a bit more expensive.
• Visit some small towns. Each Cuban small town follows roughly the same pattern, a urban oasis with its Jose Marti tribute and the local cultural center and the one, two (or none) casas particulares, and the municipal museum. The museums are small buildings carrying artifacts covering the region's entire history (from the indigenous population pre-Columbus to Castro's revolution and a bit beyond).
• Expect to hear a lot of Carlos Santana blaring out of windows at odd times of the day.
• Drink lots of fresh fruit juice, which basically flows like water in Cuba due to the abundance of fresh fruit.
• Go and visit the Che's mausoleum, where lies Ernesto Guevara's ashes.
• Walk through the streets and experience the result of a vast cultural mix.

Shopping in Cuba

Money Matters in Cuba

Dual currency system

There are two currencies circulating in Cuba, Cuban convertible pesos (CUC) and Cuban pesos (CUP). Wide circulation of US dollars in Cuba ended in November 2004.

Cuban convertible pesos are referred to by local residents as kooks and is the currency most Muslim visitors will use in Cuba. The CUC is primarily used for the purchase of tourist and luxury goods such as hotels, official taxis, entry into museums, meals at tourist restaurants, export quality cigars, bottled water and rum. The CUC is pegged 1:1 to the U.S. dollar and conversion into CUC can be done at Casa de Cambio's or Cadeca's (exchange houses) which are located in many hotels and in other places throughout the city. Tourists are permitted to import and export a maximum of CUP 100 and CUC 200 respectively at any one time.

Cuban pesos are referred to by local residents as moneda nacional (national currency) and mainly used by local residents. As of October 2015, 1 CUC buys 24 CUP and 25 CUP buys 1 CUC. The CUP is primarily used for the purchase of daily, non-luxury goods that are sold in agricultural markets, street stalls and local restaurants. This means you can buy things like Coffee, bread, fruits, vegetables, fresh juices and Snacks at local street stalls with CUP. In addition to this, CUP can also be used at some (non-tourist) sit down restaurants and for the purchase of local cigars known as 'tobaccos' or 'Nacionales'. If you are on a budget and intend to eat mainly local food to save money, it is recommended you obtain some CUP as although peso priced places will accept CUC, it is more convenient to use the local currency, and some government shops will not accept payment in CUC as they cannot provide change. Exchanging currency to CUP can be done at exchange houses. CUP currency cannot be converted to foreign currencies.

Raul Castro, who has long criticised the dual currency system as it generally pays hôteliers and taxi drivers more than medical doctors, announced in October 2013 that the dual currency system would be scrapped in roughly 18 months - however that change has not been made.

Exchanging currency

Travellers can exchange a range of foreign currencies at Casa de Cambios or Cadecas (exchange houses) which are located in airports, hotels and in major towns and cities. Bancos (banks) also exchange foreign currencies and are located in most major towns and cities. Both exchange houses and banks accept a number of foreign currencies with the most popular being Canadian and US dollars, pounds sterling and euros. Mexican pesos, Swiss francs and Japanese yen may also be accepted by some banks in Cuba. If you are holding US dollars, a 10% exchange tax will be charged in addition to any commissions normally added. If you wish to exchange US dollars, it may be cheaper to convert to another currency before hand (so long as you don't lose more than 10% in that conversion).

US Dollar Tax in Cuba|In 2004, Fidel Castro imposed a 10 percent tax on the U.S. dollar. With the normalising of relations between the two states however and the Cuban government announced in March 2016 that this tax would be eliminated. No date has been given for the lifting of the tax so as of January 2017 the tax still stands. There is no tax when converting from CUC to US dollars.

If you hold a currency that cannot be exchanged in Cuba, you may have to first exchange your home currency to one that is accepted and then exchange again to the Cuban currency. Doing the first step at at home will probably be the easiest and affordableest option.

Many exchange houses and banks have credit and debit card facilities where they can debit your account and exchange it for cash. U.S.-issued cards will not work at these terminals. In addition to this, many places do not accept MasterCard cards (U.S. issued or otherwise). The terminals at exchange houses and banks often break down or go offline so you may not be able to use any card (until at least the next day when the machine is working again). Some places will not accept cards without your name on it (travel cards for example) even if it has your signature on the back.

When changing currency, be sure to bring your passport for identification (and the address of where you are staying as thit is sometimes asked). If you are using a credit or debit card and the name on the card will need to match the name on the passport otherwise they will not accept the card. Be prepared for long queues at exchange houses and banks as well as odd opening and closing hours. Exchange facilities in resorts and hotels will often offer worse rates then banks and exchange houses in the town. Finally, do not change currency on the street as travellers have been defrauded, with fake or local currency.

Currency can be converted from CUC to foreign currencies, but as of July 2016 and the currency changers at Havana's airport only change to euros and US dollars. The currency changers also do not have anything smaller than €5 bills and US$5 bills, so expect to be stuck with a few CUCs that cannot be converted. Currency changers will also not convert any CUP currency.

ATMs

ATMs are relatively rare in Cuba but they can be found in most larger towns and cities. U.S.-issued cards and MasterCard cards (U.S.-issued or otherwise) do not work at any ATM in Cuba. ATMs do accept Visa (non U.S.-issued of course) and sometimes UnionPay. But although your card may be accepted, ATMs in Cuba often break down or do not have sufficient cash for a large withdrawal (if refused, try a smaller amount). Also, only primary accounts are recognised, so ensure your funds are not in a secondary account linked to the card.

Purchasing on credit and debit cards

There are generally facilities for making payments with plastic in many hotels and tourist shops and restaurants. UnionPay cards and Mir cards do generally work however they can only charge in US dollars or Russian Rubble and will incur a 3% or 0.50% fee. If using a debit card, cards that have a Plus or Cirrus logo may work. As mentioned above, be prepared for the card hub to not work or be disconnected so do not rely on using your card. Finally, private businesses such as casas particulares and paladares will never accept card, necessitating the use of cash.

Merchandise

As in any developing country, most of the merchandise available is designed for tourists to take back home. The biggest Cuban exports for Muslims are cigars, and Coffee, all of which are available at government-owned stores (including the duty-free store at the airport) or on the streets. For genuine merchandise, you should pay the official price at the legal stores.

Cubans also do well in creating music such as salsa, son, and Afro-Cubano. You can purchase CDs or tapes anywhere, but paying the average cost of 20 CUC assures you of quality.

If you are planning to take big quantities (several boxes or more) of cigars with you, be sure you have purchased them officially from an approved shop that gives you proper purchase documentation. Foreign nationals are allowed to export up to 50 cigars (generally 25 to a box) without special permits or receipts, but the export of more requires official receipts. If you buy cigars affordable on streets and you don't have official purchase invoice then your cigars may be confiscated. Also, any purchase of Cuban cigars outside government-approved stores (even in resorts) has the potential to be fake, and that the "cigar factory worker who steals from the factory" does not exist in any appreciable quantities. If you find a "deal" from a street vendor, it's highly likely you are getting fakes, some of which may not even be made of tobacco. Always ensure, no matter where you buy, that the Cuban government origin warranty stamp is properly affixed to the cigar box. Since 2014, licensed U.S. visitors to Cuba were being authorized to import $400 worth of goods from Cuba, of which no more than $100 could consist of tobacco products and alcohol combined. These restrictions were further relaxed in 2016, but bringing back cigars or for resale remains prohibited. As the situation is changing, it's best to verify current limits in advance.

Officially you'll need permission to export paintings that are larger than 70cm/side. When you buy artwork from approved shop then they'll give you also the required document, that consists of one paper and one stamp that will be glued on back of your painting. Serial numbers on the stamp and paper must match. Cost of the document is about CUC 2-3. In reality, it is feasible that no one will be interested in your paintings.

Medical tourism

Cuba has long been a popular medical tourism destination for patients worldwide that seek high quality medical care at low costs. According to the Association of Caribbean States, nearly 20,000 international patients visited Cuba in 2006 for medical care. Cuba is especially attractive to many Latin American and North American patients given its easy proximity and relaxing environment.

A wide range of medical treatments are provided including joint replacement, cancer treatment, eye surgery, cosmetic surgery and addictions rehabilitation. Costs are about 60 to 80 percent less than U.S. costs. For example, Choice Medical Services, a health tourism provider, provides a hip replacement at leading Cuban hospitals for US$5845.

Halal Restaurants in Cuba

Please look under Havana.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Cuba

Cuba - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Cuba, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Cuba. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Cuba and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Cuba. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Cuba. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Cuba: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Cuba.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Cuba: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Cuba, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Cuba.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Cuba, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Cuba, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Cuba and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Cuba, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Cuba, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Cuba without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Cuba is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Cuba.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Cuba is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Cuba, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Cuba Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Cuba

eHalal Group Cuba is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Cuba. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Cuba.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Cuba ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Cuba. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Cuba, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Cuba are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Cuba

Casas particulares

If you want to experience something of the real life of Cubans and the best places to stay are casas particulares, which are private houses licensed to offer lodging services to Foreign Muslims. A casa particular is basically a private family establishment that provides paid lodging, on a short-term basis. This type of establishment would more be called a bed and breakfast or vacation rental in other countries. In general, under this term, you can find full apartments and houses, rooms inside people's homes, mini-apartments or rooms with separate entrance (studio or efficiency-type rooms). The business may be operated either as a primary occupation or as a secondary source of income, and the staff often consists of the house's owners and members of their family who live there. Most casas have air conditioning and private baths. Many have minibars stocked with water, organic juice and soft drinks; and televisions. The cost of Minibar with alcohol removed items is similar to that charged in a restaurant (CUC 1-2 for water, CUC 2-3 for a Cola). Some casas also have WiFi.

Casas particulares are cheaper than hotels (average CUC 20-30/room high season; 10-15 low season) and the food (breakfast CUC 4-5, dinner CUC 8-13) is almost always better than you would get in a hotel. Casas particulares are plentiful even in small towns; they are somewhat more expensive in Havana than elsewhere.Any service offered by a casa particular other than lodging, such as driving you to the bus station, will be added to your bill, regardless of whether thit is stated up front. Items such as bottled water supplied with your meal will also have a charge. Always make sure that you talk to the owner about what things will cost when you arrive to avoid unpleasant surprises later. These houses are under a lot of restrictions by the government, so make sure that you are staying at a legal "casa". A legal house will have a sticker on the front door (often a blue sign on a white background), you will notice these as you walk past houses. Upon arrival and the houseowner will need to take down your passport details and how long you will be staying for. Some Cubans do offer illegal lodging and although they are cheaper and the quality of the food and service is generally lower. If found and the Cubans will risk a large fine and it is best to avoid illegal casas completely.

If travelling around the island, it is recommended to ask the casa owners if they have friends or family in the city you are going to. There is a network of casas and the family will gladly organise for you to be met by their friends off the bus at your next destination. Because most casas particulares are small, rarely with room for more than about 5-6 guests, it is advisable for anyone wanting to stay at a bed and breakfast to make reservations well in advance of their travel date. Many casas particulares belong to associations, have a web presence, and are described in various Books and travel guides. You can arrange your lodging in advance, either by asking your host to recommend someone and by using a casa particular association (the party making the introduction will almost always receive a commission, which you end up paying as it will be included in the lodging price). Some will let you book lodging over the internet before your trip, and will go out of their way to arrange lodging for you while you are there. You can make a reservation by calling ahead using either the casas phone or a public one.

For the best rates just arrive in a place and knock on a door to see the room and ask for the price. If you do not like either of them go for the next door. Every city and every village has way to many casas for the few tourists that come. Due to the taxes the casa owners have to pay to the government the lowest price for a room is CUC 15 in high season; 10 in low season. Some might ask you to have at least one meal at their casa to give you a affordable room price. If traveling by bus you will be sometimes welcomed by casa owners at the bus station that will present you with pictures of the room they offer. Those will most likely accept room rates of CUC 15, even breakfast for CUC 2 and dinner for CUC 5. Agree on a price and then go with them as all casas have almost the same standard. But beware of jineteros (hustlers) trying to lead you to a casa, where they will get a commission and you will be charged the extra. Make sure you talk to the casa owner.

Cubans hosting foreigners for free is illegal and risk a large fine if caught. Some will bend the rules, but be cautious if you choose to take up the offer (e.g. don't walk out the front door if you see a police vehicle nearby, especially if you look obviously foreign).

In some Cuban cities and tourist resorts, like Varadero, Playa Santa Lucia and Guardalavaca, local authorities determined that casas particulares would represent a threat to the hotel industry, and passed some legislation placing regulations and limits on the industry forbidding the operation of these establishments.

Accommodations may state that they provide wifi, but an internet token must be purchased. See "Connect" section.

Hotels

Most small cities and larger towns have at least one state-run hotel, which is often in a restored colonial building. The prices range from around CUC 25 to CUC 100, depending on what you are getting. Resorts and high-end Havana hotels can be significantly more expensive.

Study in Cuba

The University of Havana offers long- and short-term Spanish courses. If you do choose to study at the university, try to see if you can obtain a student "carne" which will enable you to benefit from the same advantages as Cuban students (museums at a 25th of the price, entrance to late night restaurants full of mostly Cubans). If you want to take private classes or study Spanish in smaller groups, you can study in Havana, Trinidad or Santiago de Cuba.

Cuban museums are plentiful, frequently open, and charge only one or two CUC for admission. You may get a guided tour from one of the staff members; even if you do not speak (Spanish), this can be useful. They will generally make you check your bags, and charge a small fee for the privilege of taking pictures inside.

How to work legally in Cuba

The average official salary for Cubans is about US$15 per month. Non-Cubans can only obtain a business/work visa or a work permit through a Cuban business or a foreign business registered in Cuba. Business visas are generally for up to three months. Work permits are renewable annually.

Stay safe as a Muslim in Cuba

Cuba is generally a very safe country; strict and prominent policing, combined with neighborhood-watch-style programs (known as the Committee for the Defense of the Revolution, or CDR) generally keep the streets safe from violent crime.

Drug laws can be harsh and their implementation unpredictable. The same may be said about the laws concerning prostitution. The importation, possession or production of pornography is strictly prohibited. It is not uncommon to see a dog jogging on the luggage carousel sniffing arriving luggage, especially when arriving from countries prone to drug-trafficking, so be sure to lock and/or wrap your luggage to avoid any problems in this regard.

Tourists are generally advised not to involve themselves in the following three areas: politics, drugs, or pornography/prostitution. There is relatively little tolerance amongst the authorities for public comments made against the Revolution, Fidel, Che, etc. It is advisable to refrain from making such comments.

Women receive a lot of attention from men, especially away from the more tourist centre of Havana. Avoiding cleavage and short skirts will lessen the attention, although by no means stop it. Do not get annoyed by the whistles or hissing sounds, as Cuban women often acknowledge and welcome the attention. Acknowledging it too enthusiastically, however, will probably encourage the men.

Medical Issues in Cuba

Cuba is considered very healthy except for the water; even many Cubans boil their water. That said, some travelers drink untreated water without ill effect. The best solution is bottled water and lots of it, especially for visitors who are not used to the temperatures over 30°C/85°F. Bottled water (agua de botella) is easily found and costs between 0.65 and 2 CUC for a 1.5L bottle, depending on the shop. The mineral count (total dissolved solids) of bottled water is quite high compared to elsewhere in the world, so if you are planning to visit Cuba for an extended period of time (e.g. as a student or on work permit), it might be a useful idea to bring a small jug/sports bottle water filter with a few cartridges along to further purify the water.

Cuban milk is unpasteurized, and can make visitors sick.Additionally, tourists should be wary of vegetables washed in tap water. Meat sold on the streets (esp. "jamon") often even looks barely edible, but Meat served in the casas is OK. Despite the warnings, most Cuban food is safe to eat and you do not need to be paranoid.

The island is tropical and thus host to a number of diseases. Some recommend an aggressive program of inoculations when planning a trip to Cuba, but most travellers come with little or none. Hepatitis B and tetanus shots are recommended by most travel clinics. Hepatitis B is generally spread by direct blood or sexual contact and the inoculation course requires three injections over several weeks, followed by a blood test to determine if it actually worked; shorter courses are available. (Interestingly and the hepatitis B vaccine is actually produced in Cuba for worldwide use). Generally tetanus immunization is more important, since tetanus is a risk with any wound or cut, especially in a dirty, contaminated wound.

Cuba has one of the highest number of doctors available per capita in the world (around one doctor for every 170 people), making doctors readily accessible throughout most of the island. Your hotel reception should be able to point you to the closest doctor. (So plentiful in fact are doctors in Cuba, that it is not uncommon to see doctors selling paintings, Books or other artwork to tourists at the flea market to make money to supplement their meager salaries.)

Police, fire and medical contact numbers

Emergency numbers in Cuba are:

• 106: National Revolutionary Police (Police department)
• 104: SIUM (Ambulances services)
• 105: Fire Department services.

Local Customs in Cuba

Cubans are generally friendly and helpful people. They make about US$15 a month: if they can help you and they probably will, but they may expect you to return the favor. If you are invited into a Cuban's home for supper, take the invitation. You will really be treated like a guest of honor. It is a great way to get a feel for the culture. Of course, ordinary Cubans are not permitted to host this type of event, but it goes on as a matter of course.

Telecommunications in Cuba

Cuba is, by design, one of the most expensive and difficult places in which to communicate.

Internet Cafe's in Cuba

Accessing the internet in Cuba is unlike any country in the world. The Internet is characterised by a low number of connections, limited bandwidth, censorship, and high cost. Ordinary Cubans had access to Internet from home by 2017 and by 4G wireless by 2023, but the cost remains prohibitive for many ($7-30/month for 600Mb-4Gb of mobile data, when most Cubans earn $30-50/month).

Finding WiFi

In Cuba, internet is provided by the state telecommunication company ETESCA (under the brand name Nauta) and is only available in airports, upmarket hotels and government communication centres. Finding an upmarket hotel or a government communications centre in major towns is fairly easy as you will see lots of local residents and tourists on their phones and laptops on the street accessing the WiFi. WiFi is also available in many public squares and parks, and the service has been extended not only in larger cities, but also in many small towns all across the nation. As thit is a fairly new system, it has not spread across the whole island. If visiting small, non-tourist towns, don't expect there to be an internet communication centre.

Purchasing a pre-paid scratch card

Before you can connect to the WiFi, you will need to purchase a pre-paid scratch card. The primary way of purchasing a card is at the government communication centre which bares the brand name ETESCA. The cost of a 1-hour scratch card is CUC$2 and there also exists a 5-hour scratch card for CUC$10. If you wish to purchase more than one, bring photo identification as the staff member will need to take down your details in order for them to do so. Queues at the centre tend to be quite lengthy and move fairly slowly.

You can also purchase a Nauta internet card at an upmarket hotel. The price of these cards vary from hotel to hotel and can be anything from cost price (CUC$2) with the purchase of a drink at the bar to upwards of CUC$8. Alternatively and there are also unofficial vendors either on the street or in small discreet shops selling the same Nauta internet cards. Prices for these cards are at a premium compared to the communication centre however almost all will accept CUC 3 after a little bargaining.

Connecting to the WiFi

Once you have purchased the card, it is simply a matter of connecting to the hotspot, scratching your card to reveal the username and password and entering these into the Nauta login screen (which should automatically appear). If the log-in screen does not appear automatically (common on some phones and laptops), enter 1.1.1.1 into your browser and the Nauta screen will appear.

Once the hour is complete and the internet will stop working and you will need to enter the username and password of a fresh card. On the other hand, if you do not want to use the full hour of the card, be sure to end your session. This can be done by entering 1.1.1.1 into your browser and clicking the end session button.

In the evening between 20:00 and 22:00 the internet tends to be rather slow as everyone is trying to connect.

Telecommunications

The country code for Cuba is 53.

The emergency number is 116. The information number is 113.

To use your cell phone in Cuba, you will need to have a GSM phone operating at 900 MHz (or quad-band world phone). If you plan on using international roaming, be sure to check with your phone company as most providers do not offer roaming in Cuba. Alternatively, you can buy a SIM card for CUC 111, plus your prepaid minutes. If you do not have a phone that operates at 900 MHz, you can rent a phone at several stores in Havana, including one in the airport. The rates are 9 CUC per day (6 CUC for the phone and 3 CUC for the SIM card), plus about 36 cents a minutes for prepaid cards.

If you're planning on being in Cuba for more than two weeks, you can bring a phone, buy a SIM card and prepaid minutes, use it and then give the phone to a Cuban friend when you leave. Cellphones are among the most desired items for Cubans (bring a case for the phone too and they are very fussy about keeping their phones scratch-free). You will have to go to a cellphone store with your friend and sign a paper to give the phone to your friend. Do not give your friend an unlimited plan that charges to your credit card!

If you do use international roaming, try to avoid sending SMSes to local Cubans. They are likely to feel obliged to reply, which will be expensive for them.

News

• Granma has a daily edition and an English-language version.
• Juventud Rebelde.
• Cubavision is the national television station.
• Radio Reloj, broadcasts news 24 hours and states the time every minutes on the minutes — dos cuarenta y dos minutos...
• Radio Havana Cuba, multi-language shortwave radio station
• Radio Rebelde, another news radio station.
• Havana Times, Photos, News Briefs and Features from Havana, Cuba.
• Cuba Headlines, Cuba News Headlines. Cuban Daily News | Cuba News, Articles and Daily Information.

Television

If you're staying at a hotel or casa particular, it's likely there will be a television, and watching Cuban television is a good place to observe Cuba's unique mix of vibrant culture, sports and politics.

The Cuban telenovelas are one of the state's key instruments for addressing sexual taboos and educating young people about AIDS, for example.

The locally produced cartoons are most interesting and uniquely Cuban. They range from abstract and artsy to informative to entertaining. The most famous of the genre is the children's program Elpidio Valdés, which chronicles the adventures of a band of rebels in the 19th-century revolt against the Spanish. The mix of cartoon slapstick humor and images of violent revolution (dashing revolutionaries stealing rifles, blowing up Spanish forts, and sticking pistols into the mouths of goofy Spanish generals) in a program geared towards children is simultaneously delightful and disturbing.

There are classes under the heading Universidad Para Todos (University for Everybody) with the purpose to teach Cubans subjects like mathematics and grammar through the television. Also one of the channels is called the "Educational Channel" (Canal Educativo).

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